Dentist check-ups have become a standard part of prenatal care, as health care providers have recognized the correlation between healthy teeth and healthy pregnancies.
Delta Dental’s Arcora Foundation has created a dentist’s office on wheels filled with volunteer clinicians. Earlier this month it was in Spokane offering free and low-cost care to pregnant women who are uninsured or covered by Apple Health. Apple Health is Washington’s program for low-income people.
Dr. Amir Kazim is a volunteer with SmileMobile, the program funded by the foundation.
In particular, pregnancy causes the hormones to fluctuate greatly, especially around the mouth, and makes it more prone for the bacteria to get in there, Kazim said.
Arcora Foundation reports about 40 percent of pregnant women have tooth decay. Poor oral health has been linked to diabetes, heart disease and stroke.
The converted mobile home is equipped to offer screenings and cleanings, as well as some treatment and local referrals.
The SmileMobile was parked outside the Spokane Regional Health District and Salvation Army earlier this month.
The cost for uninsured patients is on a sliding scale fee based on income and family size. Apple Health will be billed directly for insured patients.
To schedule an appointment call 888-286-9105.